Why Lead Paint Testing Matters
Older Properties
Buildings constructed before 1978 may contain lead-based paint, including surfaces that have been covered by newer paint. Testing can identify lead-based paint that cannot be confirmed through visual inspection alone.
Renovation & Repair
Work that disturbs painted surfaces can release lead-contaminated dust when lead-based paint is present. Testing before work begins can help identify affected components and support proper project planning.
NYC Compliance
New York City property owners may have specific lead inspection, testing, correction, and recordkeeping responsibilities based on building age and occupancy. Professional testing can provide the documentation needed for applicable requirements.
NYC Lead Paint Laws
Local Law 1
Applies to pre-1960 buildings and certain 1960 to 1978 buildings where lead-based paint is present.
Requires annual notices to determine whether a child under six resides in an applicable dwelling unit.
Requires annual visual inspections for lead-based paint hazards in units where a child under six resides.
Identified lead hazards must be corrected using required lead-safe work practices and appropriate procedures.
Owners must retain required notices, records, and documentation to demonstrate ongoing compliance.
Local Law 31
Requires X-ray fluorescence (XRF) testing of painted surfaces in applicable dwelling units and common areas.
Testing must be performed by an EPA certified inspector or risk assessor.
The general compliance deadline for required XRF testing was August 9, 2025.
If a child under six moves into an applicable untested unit, XRF testing is required within one year.
Owners must retain XRF testing records and provide documentation when required for compliance review.
Local Law 66
Establishes 0.5 mg/cm² as New York City's current threshold for identifying lead-based paint.
The updated threshold applies to current lead paint inspections and applicable remediation requirements.
XRF testing must use equipment and procedures appropriate for New York City's current lead threshold.
Test results identify painted components that meet the city's definition of lead-based paint.
Owners must maintain accurate testing documentation to support compliance, correction work, and recordkeeping.
Lead Paint Testing Methods
Dust wipe sampling measures lead in settled dust rather than determining whether a painted surface contains lead-based paint. Samples may be collected from floors, window sills, and other appropriate surfaces and sent to a laboratory for analysis.
Dust sampling is used in specific situations, including certain lead hazard evaluations and post-work testing. It is not automatically part of every XRF inspection.
X-ray fluorescence (XRF) testing identifies lead-based paint on painted building components without damaging the surface. It can be used on walls, doors, windows, trim, and other components and is the testing method required for applicable inspections under NYC Local Law 31.
XRF results help property owners identify which components contain lead-based paint and maintain the documentation needed for compliance, renovation planning, and future property decisions.
After lead hazard reduction or renovation work, clearance testing may be required to determine whether the work area meets applicable requirements. This typically includes a visual assessment and dust wipe sampling performed after the work and required cleaning are complete.
Additional testing may be needed when the scope of work, conditions, or requirements call for further evaluation. We help determine the right testing approach for the project.
XRF Lead-Based Paint Testing Explained
Non-Destructive Testing
Component-Specific Results
NYC Compliance Documentation
Our Lead Testing Process
On-Site Inspection
The inspector evaluates the required painted components using the appropriate testing method. XRF testing, dust sampling, or other testing is performed based on the inspection scope.
Clear Reporting
You receive a detailed report documenting the testing performed and the results, with clear information about the lead conditions identified at the property.
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We confirm your property details, reason for testing, and applicable requirements so the appropriate inspection can be planned.
Testing Documentation
Test locations, individual readings, and relevant property information are documented throughout the inspection to create a clear record of the findings.
Next Steps Guidance
We explain the findings and help you understand whether additional testing, corrective work, clearance testing, or other compliance steps may be required.
Schedule Your Lead Test
Who We Serve
Meet applicable New York City lead paint requirements with professional testing and clear documentation. Results can support ongoing compliance, unit turnover, and property management decisions.
Understand whether lead-based paint is present in older homes and apartments. Professional testing provides clear results that can help you make informed decisions about your living space.
Identify lead-based paint before renovation or demolition work begins. Testing helps define affected surfaces and provides useful documentation for project planning and lead-safe work.
Why Choose BEP Environmental
We provide lead paint testing without performing remediation, keeping our findings focused on the conditions identified and the testing required for the property.
Our experience with X-ray fluorescence (XRF) testing, dust sampling, and clearance testing helps us select the appropriate method for the inspection and its purpose.
We understand applicable New York City lead paint requirements, including Local Law 1, Local Law 31, and Local Law 66, and provide testing appropriate to the required scope.
You receive organized results documenting the testing performed and conditions identified, along with clear guidance on additional testing, corrective work, or compliance steps when applicable.
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